Global Solar Capacity Surges 64% in First Half of 2025
The world installed 380 GW of new solar capacity in the first six months of 2025, representing a 64% increase compared to the same period in 2024, and marking the fastest growth ever recorded for solar power globally.[5] This rapid expansion underscores solar’s leading role in the global energy transition.
U.S. Renewable Investment Plummets Amid Policy Shifts and Tariffs
Renewable energy investment in the United States fell by 36% in the first half of 2025 compared to late 2024, the steepest decline globally, driven by federal policy changes, removal of tax incentives, and higher project costs from new tariffs.[1] Clean tech manufacturing plans are being cancelled at an accelerated rate, with project costs for solar and battery storage rising up to 30% due to tariffs on steel and aluminum.[1]
Major U.S. Federal Regulatory Changes Hit Renewables
The EPA is cancelling the $7 billion Solar for All program, cutting support for solar in low-income communities, while the Department of the Interior now mandates that only projects with the highest energy density will be permitted on federal lands, which disadvantages wind and solar.[6] The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has also rescinded all planned offshore wind lease areas and the leasing schedule, and the Lava Ridge Wind Project approval was reversed over legal deficiencies.[6]
Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technologies Conference Opens in Paris
The “Renewable Energy 2025” conference commenced in Paris on September 8, bringing together international experts to discuss advanced research in biofuels, energy storage, wind, solar, and sustainable engineering.[4] The event features keynote presentations, research sharing, and networking to drive innovation for a greener global energy future.[4]
Upcoming Focus on Grid Integration of Renewables at Albany Conference
Preparations are underway for the “Renewable Energy Pathways Conference” in Albany, New York (September 10-11), which will address the critical intersection of weather, renewable generation, and grid operations as renewables achieve higher grid penetration.[8] Topics include innovations in energy storage, grid integration challenges, and strategies for resilience amid climate-driven weather extremes.[8]